David Garten

I’ve always considered myself an optimistic soul with a bit of a twist. When people talk about the glass being half full or half empty-I always thought, what a nice glass! When I think about What Matters?! to me, it comes down to our connection to each other as humans. I think we should be kind, and approach each other with an open heart knowing that we all have more in common than what divides us.

I think there is a tremendous amount that we can learn from each other and not in an opportunistic way, but in a shared learning. I’ve been blessed to work in a variety of industries and positions including banking, restaurants, running a candle company, developing affordable housing, and even starting a perfume company. I call myself an immersion learner because I like to jump in and figure things out, but not in a vacuum by learning from others as well as looking at things with an intuitive sense.

When I was in college I wanted to be a real estate developer and wanted to make lots of money. What I have discovered is that beyond our basic needs, What Matters?! is having people to share laughter and joyful moments including sitting around your dinner table. What Matters?! is having people in your life to hold your hand when you are scared, to tell you things will get better when you are having trouble, to answer the phone when you need to hear a friendly voice. What Matters?! is each other.

"My personal mission is to create and cultivate unity and community based on positivity, kindness, and from the heart."

Who We Are

About Us

Ask What Matters?! provides tools and resources to gain clarity, reduce stress, and increase overall well-being. At its heart is a set of five practices and mindset that help people engage in regular self-reflection, have open and courageous conversations, explore previously invisible options, and dare to make powerful, life-affirming choices.